Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018: Review, Specs, And More

by Alex Braham 57 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018. If you're thinking about snagging one of these, or you're just curious about what it's all about, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything from its performance and features to its pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started!

Overview of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018 is a compact SUV that offers a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It's designed to appeal to those who want a versatile vehicle without breaking the bank. This model year brought some minor updates, including a few cosmetic tweaks and feature enhancements, making it a solid contender in the crowded compact SUV market. Competing against the likes of the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, and Jeep Renegade, the Outlander Sport aims to provide a budget-friendly option with decent cargo space and a comfortable ride.

One of the key selling points of the Outlander Sport is its value proposition. It typically comes with a lower price tag than many of its competitors, which can be a major draw for budget-conscious buyers. However, this affordability does come with some trade-offs, such as a less refined interior and a somewhat underwhelming base engine. Despite these drawbacks, the Outlander Sport 2018 remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and economical SUV. It's particularly well-suited for city dwellers and small families who need a vehicle that's easy to maneuver and park, while still offering enough space for passengers and cargo. The availability of all-wheel drive is also a plus for those living in areas with inclement weather.

Beyond its practicality, the Outlander Sport 2018 also offers a decent array of features, especially in the higher trim levels. These can include things like a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and advanced safety technologies. While it may not be the most luxurious or technologically advanced SUV on the market, it provides a good balance of features and affordability. Overall, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018 is a solid choice for those who prioritize value and practicality over high-end luxury and performance. It’s a no-nonsense vehicle that gets the job done, offering a comfortable and reliable ride at a reasonable price.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018 offers a couple of engine options, each with its own characteristics. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces around 148 horsepower. While this engine is adequate for basic commuting, it can feel a bit underpowered when you're trying to accelerate quickly or merge onto the highway. If you're looking for a bit more pep, you might want to consider the available 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which bumps the horsepower up to 168. This engine provides a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness, making it a more enjoyable driving experience.

The handling of the Outlander Sport is decent, but it's not exactly sporty. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking lots. However, the suspension is tuned more for comfort than for performance, so you might experience some body roll when cornering. The ride quality is generally smooth, though, which is a plus for daily driving. One thing to keep in mind is that the continuously variable transmission (CVT) can sometimes feel a bit sluggish, especially when you're trying to accelerate from a stop. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's something to be aware of.

For those who live in areas with snow or rough roads, the availability of all-wheel drive is a significant advantage. The AWD system provides added traction and stability, giving you more confidence in challenging driving conditions. Fuel economy is also a consideration, and the Outlander Sport delivers respectable numbers for its class. The base engine gets around 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the 2.4-liter engine gets slightly lower figures. Overall, the performance and handling of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018 are adequate for most drivers, but it's not the most exciting vehicle in its class. It prioritizes affordability and practicality over sporty performance.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018, you'll find a functional and straightforward interior. The design is simple and uncluttered, with a focus on usability rather than luxury. The materials used are mostly hard plastics, which is typical for vehicles in this price range. However, the overall build quality is decent, and the seats are comfortable enough for long drives. The front seats offer good support, and there's ample headroom and legroom for both the driver and passenger. The rear seats are a bit tighter, but they're still adequate for most adults on shorter trips.

In terms of features, the Outlander Sport 2018 offers a decent array of technology and convenience options. The base model comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which includes Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a USB port. Higher trim levels add features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system. Other available features include a Rockford Fosgate audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and keyless entry with push-button start.

One of the standout features of the Outlander Sport is its generous cargo space. With the rear seats up, you get around 21.7 cubic feet of cargo volume, which is enough for groceries, luggage, or other everyday items. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to 49.5 cubic feet, providing plenty of room for larger items like furniture or sports equipment. The Outlander Sport also offers a number of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a glovebox, door pockets, and a center console, making it easy to keep your belongings organized.

While the interior of the Outlander Sport 2018 may not be the most luxurious or stylish, it's functional and practical. It offers a good balance of features and cargo space, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize usability and value.

Reliability and Safety

When considering a vehicle, reliability and safety are always top priorities. The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018 generally has a good reputation for reliability. While it may not be the most exciting car on the road, it's known for being dependable and holding up well over time. According to various consumer reports and owner reviews, the Outlander Sport tends to have fewer major issues compared to some of its competitors. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is key to keeping it running smoothly for years to come.

In terms of safety, the Outlander Sport 2018 comes equipped with a range of standard safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full suite of airbags. Higher trim levels add advanced safety technologies like forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features can help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have conducted crash tests on the Outlander Sport 2018, and the results are generally positive. It's always a good idea to check the latest safety ratings from these organizations before making a purchase.

One thing to keep in mind is that some safety features are only available on higher trim levels, so you may need to upgrade to get the most comprehensive safety package. However, even the base model offers a solid level of protection. Overall, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018 is a reliable and safe vehicle that provides peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

Pros and Cons

To give you a clear picture, let's break down the pros and cons of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018:

Pros:

  • Affordable Price: One of the most attractive aspects of the Outlander Sport is its budget-friendly price tag.
  • Good Fuel Economy: It offers respectable fuel efficiency, especially with the base engine.
  • Available All-Wheel Drive: The AWD system provides added traction and stability in challenging driving conditions.
  • Decent Cargo Space: It offers a generous amount of cargo room for its class.
  • User-Friendly Infotainment System: Higher trim levels come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Cons:

  • Underpowered Base Engine: The 2.0-liter engine can feel sluggish, especially when accelerating or merging onto the highway.
  • Basic Interior: The interior design is simple and the materials are mostly hard plastics.
  • CVT Transmission: The continuously variable transmission can sometimes feel unresponsive.
  • Ride Quality: While generally smooth, the suspension is tuned more for comfort than sporty handling.
  • Resale Value: Historically, Mitsubishi vehicles haven't held their value as well as some other brands.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018? It's a solid choice for those who prioritize affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. It's not the most exciting or luxurious SUV on the market, but it offers a good balance of features and value. If you're on a tight budget and need a reliable vehicle for daily commuting and occasional road trips, the Outlander Sport is definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for a more sporty driving experience or a more upscale interior, you might want to explore other options.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Outlander Sport is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. Consider your specific needs and priorities, and weigh the pros and cons carefully. With its affordable price and decent features, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018 remains a popular choice in the competitive compact SUV market. Happy driving, guys!